A Guide to Picking the Right Architect
Architects are not the same. Each one has his or her chic, techniques of work as well as the approach to design. As such, it is elemental that you get an architect that understands your wants and style. However, it is not easy identifying the ideal architect for your project when there are countless of them in the industry. All the same, if you have partnered with a particular architect and satisfied with the result, it makes sense to work with them again. Keep reading the piece and know how you ought to go about the selection process.
A bit of legwork goes a long way. Take time to identify and acknowledge your particular building needs and objectives. Think about the space you need, activities to be accommodated in the space as well as your budget. In addition to that, you should know how you will finance the event as well as your location. All this will help you identify which candidate qualified to and which one doesn’t.
Besides that, consider going through your community and pick projects that you love and then find out who was behind them. You can ask for recommendations from people around you who have needed an architect’s services. Look up the AIA to ensure that the architect is a certified member. Membership to the American Institute of Architects means that one abides by professional code of conducts and has access to an assortment of specialist as well as technical resources.
From your list of recommendations, contact each firm. Explain your project and inquire whether they are available to take up your task. If the firm is free, ensure you ask for literature outlining their certification and experience. Being reluctant about meeting such requirements is a sufficient reason to worry. You should get a portfolio, a letter of interest, fact sheets, and biographical material regarding core personnel. Look past the brochure style to figure out which company is sufficiently experienced and qualified for the project. From all this, you should narrow down your list to at most three architects you should meet with.
When interviewing the architect, focus on the personality and attitude of the professional. You may hire the best architect in your local market, but without the right chemistry, you are unlikely to be satisfied with the project’s outcome. Chemistry is essential because you are going to be with the archest for an extended period. So, in the period you want to work with an individual you are comfortable with.
While you may already understand the services needed for the project, it is best that you work closely with the architect to see other elements that may be necessary to make the project a success. Various assignments need different blends of architectural services. So you are safer when you to figure out the critical services essential to actualize your needs and goals.
Last but not least, consider the cost of the architect’s services. The project’s square footage will, in most cases determine what the architect will charge you. It is not often that an architect will charge on an hourly basis. Do your calculations and see what your budget can afford.